The SEMA Businesswomen's Network (SBN) is celebrating a milestone: Three decades devoted to advancing women's professional careers through networking, mentoring and education. From Gear-Up Girl events, awards recognition and member spotlights to the Women's Forum and acclaimed all-female builds, the accomplishments rack up.
Learn more about SBN's roots through photos and milestones that define this council.
Join the SBN for an evening of celebration and networking at the 2023 SEMA Show SBN Reception. A highly anticipated event, this is the ideal opportunity to celebrate the strides women are making in the automotive aftermarket, connect with the select committee, and learn more about resources for members and getting involved in the SBN.
This year, SBN will be celebrating it's 30th anniversary. Keep an eye out for more information on special activations showcasing the council's impact throughout the years.
SBN's roots can be traced to the mid-'80s—a time when men had the inside track on opportunities to build per- sonal and professional connections. And few such opportunities existed for women. That is, until four determined industry pros took up the challenge.
Amy Faulk, Marth Doyle, Ellen Mckoy, and Charlie Van Cleve headed the formation of the Professional Women's League (PWL), the forerunner to SBN. A subcommittee of SEMA's Women's Activities Committee (WAC) — a spouse group — PWL was founded in 1987. Its mission: to provide professional women in the aftermarket with a venue through which they can enhance and strengthen their position and role in the performance and appearance.
Male Ally Webinar Series – 2023
Looking to foster allyship and support women in the industry, SEMA introduced the Male Ally Webinar Series in 2023, providing men with insights, tools, and strategies to promote gender equality and inclusivity in their organizations.
SBN CELEBRATES 30 YEARS OF SUPPORTING WOMEN IN THE AUTOMOTIVE AFTERMARKET
SBN is celebrating its 30th anniversary in 2023! Since 1993, the SBN has developed industry-focused programs for women, including networking, education and recognition opportunities. The network has grown to include more than 700 members spanning across various occupations and markets in the aftermarket industry.
SBN CELEBRATES 30 YEARS OF SUPPORTING WOMEN IN THE AUTOMOTIVE AFTERMARKET
SBN is celebrating its 30th anniversary in 2023! Since 1993, the SBN has developed industry-focused programs for women, including networking, education and recognition opportunities. The network has grown to include more than 700 members spanning across various occupations and markets in the aftermarket industry.
WOMEN IN AUTOMOTIVE THRIVE AT SBN'S WOMEN'S LEADERSHIP FORUM
The SBN provides resources to help women in the automotive aftermarket advance in their careers. The SBN Women's Leadership Forum, which took place earlier this month in Southern California, is no exception.
SBN WEBINAR TO FEATURE INDUSTRY LEADERS SHARING EXAMPLES OF MALE ALLY SUPPORT
A collaborative environment between men and women in the workplace is essential to SBN building a strong, supportive environment for all professionals. In the traditionally male-dominated automotive aftermarket industry, establishing an organization in which women are supported by their male counterparts fosters innovation and success.
Female CEO Roundtable | 2019
In 2019, SEMA organized a Female CEO Roundtable, bringing together accomplished women leaders to discuss industry challenges, share insights, and inspire the next generation of female executives.
Athena Award changed to SheIsSEMA Woman of the Year Award | 2019
In 2019, SEMA renamed the prestigious Athena Award to the SheIsSEMA Woman of the Year Award, recognizing exceptional women who have made significant contributions and demonstrated leadership in the industry.
Jessi Combs Rising Star Award created | 2019
SEMA introduced the Jessi Combs Rising Star Award as a tribute to the late Jessi Combs, honoring promising individuals under the age of 30 in the automotive aftermarket who demonstrate exceptional talent and potential. Formerly known as the "Rising Star" award, the name was changed by the SBN to honor Combs' legacy as one of the industry's most beloved racers and metal fabricators. The award recognizes women who are advancing their careers in the automotive aftermarket and making significant strides in the industry.
SBN DELIVERING EDUCATION TO ADVANCE YOUR CAREER
With a focus on advancing the careers of women in the automotive aftermarket, the SBN is excited to announce three seminars taking place at the 2018 SEMA Show.
SHINING A LIGHT ON WOMEN IN THE WORKPLACE
Providing opportunities for professional women in the automotive specialty-equipment industry is a top priority for the SEMA Businesswomen's Network (SBN). The SEMA Show affords SBN members multiple ways to hone leadership skills, encourage the advancement and growth of women in the industry, and inspire entry into the industry through education and mentoring.
SBN VIRTUAL EDUCATION LIBRARY AVAILABLE
SBN's final live webinar of the year was held on October 7, marking the year's end to a successful virtual education program that included four series, with up to two to six sessions in each series. Each session included informative discussion and live Q&A time, giving participants valuable content to help them advance their knowledge and careers.
SBN PROGRAMS CONNECT AND ENGAGE
The SEMA Businesswomen's Network (SBN) is poised to host its first in-person programs after a two-year pandemic-induced hiatus. Designed to empower industry women, SBN's activities present opportunities for attendees to connect with like-minded colleagues and further their careers.
Gear Up Girl Luncheon at PRI Show |2021
The Gear Up Girl Luncheon, held during the PRI Show in 2021, provided a platform for women in the industry to connect, network, and celebrate their achievements while promoting diversity and inclusion.
Virtual Education Series | 2021
In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, SEMA launched a Virtual Education Series in 2021, delivering industry-specific knowledge, insights, and training through online seminars and workshops.
SBN All Female Build – Ford Bronco | 2022
SEMA's SBN launched an All-Female Build project in 2022, customizing a Ford Bronco Wildtrak. The project involved over 100 volunteers who worked for 90 days, both on the east and west coast. The vehicle was unveiled at the 2022 SEMA Show to great acclaim and received immense support from aftermarket companies and installation facilities. The project showcased the remarkable talent and expertise of women in the industry and demonstrated the strength and camaraderie of the entire automotive community.
Inaugural Women's Leadership Forum | 2022
SEMA introduced the Women's Leadership Forum in 2022, a dynamic event empowering women in the automotive aftermarket industry. The forum offers comprehensive leadership training tailored to individual interests, fostering personal development and general leadership skills. Attendees network, play games, and build friendships in a supportive setting, creating valuable connections within the industry. The Women's Leadership Forum serves as a platform for SBN members to support, advise, and create opportunities for each other, making it a vital experience for all involved.
FIVE REASONS TO ATTEND THE SBN WOMEN'S LEADERSHIP FORUM
The first-ever SBN Women's Leadership Forum is on March 16-18, 2022 at the Avenue of the Arts Hotel in Costa Mesa, CA. Below are five great reasons to be a part of the inaugural event.
GETTING INVOLVED WITH SBN: FROM MRP TO SELECT COMMITTEE
Heading into the 2013 SEMA Show, the SEMA Businesswomen's Network (SBN) re-evaluated its core mission statement, and it now reflects the group's proactive and ongoing advocacy for women in the aftermarket industry. SBN's mission is to provide networking, education and recognition opportunities for professional women in the automotive specialty-equipment industry that will enhance their careers and positively impact the growth of the entire automotive aftermarket.
Inaugural SBN Reception/SBN 20th Anniversary Celebration | 2013
In 2013, the SEMA Businesswomen's Network (SBN) celebrated its 20th anniversary with an inaugural reception, recognizing the achievements of women in the automotive aftermarket and fostering industry connections.
FROM SBN CHAIR TO THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS: LUANNE BROWN GETS IT!
There have been only a handful of women on the SEMA Board of Directors (BOD), and four of them chaired the SEMA Businesswomen's Network (SBN) before rising to the Board. Luanne Brown is one of those women.
SheIsSEMA Program Started | 2016
In 2016, the SheIsSEMA program was introduced by the SEMA Businesswomen's Network (SBN) to empower and support women in the automotive industry. Through the #SheIsSEMA campaign, SBN raises awareness of successful women in the industry, showcasing their achievements and career paths. The campaign, featured on social media and SEMA eNews, aims to bridge the gap and inspire the next generation of women in this traditionally male-dominated industry. Furthermore, #SheIsSEMA candidates have the opportunity to be considered for SBN's prestigious "Woman of the Year" award, presented at SBN's reception during the annual SEMA Show.
SBN HONORED AND CELEBRATED LEADING WOMEN AT 2017 SEMA SHOW
Another year is in the books for the SEMA Businesswomen's Network (SBN)—a year that brought both seasoned and new committee members to the network, each committed to providing opportunities for professional women in the automotive specialty-equipment industry.
MEET OUR INCOMING CHAIRWOMAN!
Not Just Another Woman in the Industry…
It wasn't long ago that when a male called a business to get his questions answered regarding automotive performance products and he heard a female voice on the other end, his attitude and the tone in his voice would shift to "she has no idea" and he would say, "Just have one of your guys give me a call about this."
THE SBN INSIDER
In each issue of SEMA Member News, "The SBN Insider" will feature good news from SEMA Businesswomen's Network (SBN) members across the country. Offering a unique platform for SBN members to get to know one another in a more personal way, "The SBN Insider" gives our growing SBN membership of more than 260 professional women a place to celebrate good news about our experience as professional women in the automotive specialty-equipment market.
SBN HONORS ANNOUNCED
The annual SEMA Speed Networking Breakfast—Powered by the SEMA Businesswomen's Network (SBN), has become one of the favorite events at the SEMA Show. This year's attendance, similar to years past, showed the popularity of the combined awards breakfast with a concluding speed networking activity that allows attendees to meet in multiple consecutive quick introductions. After opening remarks by SBN Chair Tammy Holland of Competition Cams and Chair-Elect Marla Moore of Hypertech Inc., four prestigious awards were presented before an expectant crowd. The awards ncluded Lifetime Achievement, Athena, Woman of the Year and Mentor of the Year.
Gear Up Girl Reception at SEMA Show | 2010
In 2010, the Gear Up Girl Reception was introduced as part of the SEMA Show, organized by SBN. This event specifically reserved for women, served as a networking opportunity for professionals to give back and share advice with today's female youth/students.
These accomplishments showcase SBN's commitment to promoting diversity, inclusivity, and excellence within the automotive industry, fostering an environment that supports and celebrates the achievements of women professionals.
SBN'S PRICE-MCCALL ENGAGES YOUTH TO HELP BUILD INDUSTRY
Sherry Price-McCall, account executive at Masters TV in Bristol, Tennessee, began her career in the specialty-equipment industry 12 years ago with York International. Over the past decade, she's created a variety of new features and programs to promote the automotive industry, particularly among youth in motorsports and ways to keep them involved.
SBN CHAIR TAMMY HOLLAND: A JOURNEY IN SERVICE TO THE INDUSTRY
Tammy Holland has been involved in the automotive specialty-equipment industry for more than 14 years with Comp Performance Group in sales communications, and she has been active in the industry since 1999. She is the mother of two children, 20-year-old Brittany and 15-year-old Draven, and she currently serves as the chairman of the SEMA Businesswomen's Network (SBN). SEMA Member News took a few minutes recently to talk with her about her commitment to the industry and her journey within it.
In the Know with a Cup of Joe | 2011 – 2014
From 2011 to 2014, the "In the Know with a Cup of Joe" series provided industry professionals with valuable insights and updates on the latest trends and developments in the automotive aftermarket.
NOW UNDERWAY: SEMA MUSTANG BUILD POWERED BY WOMEN
For this year's SEMA Show, Ford Motor Co. and SEMA have teamed up on a unique project: the SEMA Mustang Build Powered by Women. Under the direction of the SEMA Businesswomen's Network (SBN) and built entirely by SBN members, the project is designed to shine the light on women working in the automotive aftermarket and encourage more women to pursue careers in the industry.
SEMA Mentoring Program: Sponsored by SBN – 2004:
In 2004, the SEMA Mentoring Program was launched, sponsored by SBN. This program connected experienced industry professionals with aspiring individuals, providing guidance, support, and knowledge transfer to foster professional development and success.
Speed Networking – 2005:
In 2005, SBN introduced speed networking events, bringing together industry professionals for rapid-fire, efficient networking sessions. This innovative approach allowed participants to build valuable connections, exchange information, and explore potential collaborations in a dynamic and time-effective manner.
Professional Women's League (PWL) Created | 1987: In 1987, SBN established the Professional Women's League (PWL), a platform dedicated to empowering and supporting women in the automotive industry. This groundbreaking initiative provided opportunities for women to network, collaborate, and thrive within the industry.
Roundtable Discussion at SEMA Show | 1987:In the same year, SBN hosted a roundtable discussion at the SEMA Show, an influential automotive trade show. This event brought together industry professionals, fostering meaningful conversations and exchanges of ideas to drive innovation and progress within the sector.
Annual Breakfast at SEMA Show | 1987: SBN also introduced the annual breakfast event at the SEMA Show in 1987. This gathering became a staple of the industry, providing a platform for networking, sharing industry insights, and celebrating notable achievements within the automotive community.
SEMA Woman of the Year, presented by the Professional Women's League (PWL) | 1992: In 1992, SBN introduced the SEMA Woman of the Year award, presented by the Professional Women's League. This prestigious accolade recognized outstanding women in the industry who had made significant contributions and demonstrated leadership in their respective roles.
SEMA Woman of the Year, changed to Athena Award | 1993: The following year, in 1993, the SEMA Woman of the Year award was renamed as the Athena Award. This change was made by SBN to symbolize the strength, wisdom, and resilience personified by women in the automotive industry and to honor the goddess Athena, known for her wisdom and strategic abilities.
SEMA Businesswomen's Network (SBN) Approved by the Board of Directors | 1993: In 1993, SBN was officially approved by its Board of Directors. This network provided a supportive community for women in the industry, offering resources, mentorship programs, and opportunities for professional growth and advancement.
Silent Auction | 1993: In the same year, SBN initiated a silent auction, a fundraising event that allowed members of the automotive community to bid on valuable items and experiences. This auction served as an opportunity to generate funding for various industry initiatives and charitable causes.
The SEMA Businesswomen's Network is a dynamic group of professionals representing the women of SEMA. The SBN oversees the continued development and management of the SEMA Mentoring Program, the Annual SEMA Speed Networking Breakfast, opportunities for SBN Member Networking, SBN Communications, SBN Projects, development of articles and member features, contributes regularly to SEMA Member News, and much more!
nicoleb@sema.org
909-323-2149